The most popular mode of communication with a congressional office is via letter. To ensure the effectiveness of your correspondence, please consider the following steps:

1. Make sure that the purpose of your letter is clearly stated in the first paragraph. Be sure to mention the specific legislation you are writing about, along with the corresponding bill number (H.R. __ or S. __).
2. Be courteous and to the point. If possible, support your points with examples that your retail facility has encountered. This is the most effective means of illustrating the problem and the potential impact that a piece of legislation can have on your day-to-day business.
3. Address only one issue in each letter. The sample letters on the issues above specifically address that individual topic. If possible, make the letter one-page only. Remember, you’re competing with hundreds of thousands constituents to be heard.

Addressing Correspondence

Senator:

The Honorable Full Name      
United States Senate
Washington, DC 20510
Dear Senator Last Name:

Represenative:

The Honorable Full Name
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Representative Last Name:

These are just a few tips for you to consider when sending out letters on the issues outlined. However, for your convenience the content has already been written by ARA and all you will need to do is fill in your members of Congress’ names.

If you have any questions, please contact Richard Gupton, director of legislative policy & counsel, at (202) 457-0825, ext. 16 or via e-mail at richard@aradc.org. Thanks for your help!

Please send us copies of your letters to:
Agricultural Retailers Association
c/o Richard Gupton
1156 15th Street, NW
Suite 302
Washington, DC 20005